East of Bordeaux is St. Émilion, a picturesque Girondin town dominated by the Église Monolithe (Monolithic Church), a medieval church with a distinctive bell tower. The church was given its name because it was made out of a single block of stone, although the bell tower was added later. Explore the site and climb to the top of the tower for views over the quaint village and surrounding vineyards.
In the 8th century, a Benedictine monk lived in a cave in this valley. The monolithic church was carved out of the same rocks as that cave. Marvel at the proportions of this structure, one of the largest churches of its kind in Europe.
Enter the church from the market square. As you pass through the arch, look for a carved religious relief. At the other end of the arch, walk into the surprisingly large church nave. It is estimated that about 530,000 cubic feet (15,000 cubic meters) of rock were excavated in order to construct the church. The nave, which is 65 feet (20 meters) tall, is lit naturally by small windows carved from the rock.
Take a tour of all of St. Émilion's underground sites to learn about the monk's story in the cave where he lived. Guides will provide extra information about the church too. Tours are run every day during peak visitor season. Purchase tickets from the tourist office.
Ascend 196 steps to the top of the bell tower. Gaze down below to the winding streets, which weave around the red-tiled roofs of the village. In the distance is the King's Tower, a 13th-century fortification of unknown purpose. Surrounding the village are vineyards, which are famous for growing merlot grapes.
St. Émilion is about an hour away from Bordeaux-Merignac Airport. Find the Église Monolithe in the center of town. A long-term, metered car park is available in the northern part of the village.
